Elizabeth Andarge

The holiday season has a way of bringing people together through shared tradition. Though the rituals may differ, some celebrations share a common theme of devotion, especially for local Catholic immigrant communities.

Every year, millions of people celebrate Christmas to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. But historical evidence suggests that Jesus wasn’t even born in the month of December.

Across the United States, a growing number of people are identifying as religiously unaffiliated, also known as "nones.” According to PEW research center, they make up more than 25% of the U.S. population. But, this religious shift has ripple effects.

In the heart of Fort Myers lies a small—but mighty—Lay Buddhist community. The 10-person group has been around for over a decade, but this year might be their most challenging one to date.

It's that time of year when folks around Florida gather around the table for Thanksgiving. But for some Native American communities, the holiday looks a little different these days.

As we commemorate Native American History Month, we turn our attention to a small city in Southwest Florida. From treaties and broken promises to surprising acts of cooperation, the story of Fort Myers offers a lens into the complex history of the Seminole Wars and their lasting impact.

Faith took a bold step forward at the Southwest Florida Pride Festival over the weekend. In attendance were young children, old couples, an HIV testing van and holy crosses. Three faith communities joined the celebration, supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in a way that some say is long overdue.

For Native American history month, the Mound House Museum on Fort Myers Beach hosted an Indigenous film premiere that brought together featuring artists whose work reflects pop culture and U.S. history.

For the past 15 years, the Diocese of Venice has hosted a Veterans Day ceremony to pay tribute to the fallen.

A small Romanian Orthodox community nestled here in Southwest Florida hosts an annual Fall Festival. Generations gather together to celebrate their faith, culture, and tradition.